Exploring Japanese Collections: The Cultural Thread from Shōsōin's Treasures to the Global Art Stage When Japanese collections are mentioned, do you first think of those Oriental treasures that have circulated for millennia? From Chinese porcelain that crossed the seas during…
1. Māori Carving (Whakairo) 1. Origins and Significance “Whakairo” in the Māori language means “carving,” encompassing wood, bone, and stone carving. Māori carving is not merely decorative art but a narrative medium used to preserve family genealogies (Whakapapa), tribal history,…
Old silver bracelets, as a classic among traditional jewelry, carry rich cultural connotations. Their history can be traced back to the Warring States Period, flourished in the Tang Dynasty, became popular among the people in the Song and Yuan Dynasties,…
When you think of Japan, you might immediately picture Mount Fuji, kimonos, cherry blossoms, and sushi. This island nation, blessed with four distinct seasons, is not only rich in historical culture but has also developed a unique and refined lifestyle…
When people think of antique culture, they often think of Chinese bronzes and porcelain or European paintings and jewelry. However, the East Asian island nation of Japan also possesses a unique and profound antique culture. Deeply influenced by traditional Chinese…
While sorting through old items, I found an old brass plane in my grandfather’s toolbox—its wooden handle had been polished to a shine from years of use, and the brass blade still bore fine, tiny marks left by work. Engraved…
In the fast-paced rhythm of modern life, more and more people are turning their attention to “old objects” that carry the weight of history—antiques. These might be a blue-and-white porcelain bowl from the late Qing Dynasty, a Song Dynasty Buddha…
Chinese colored porcelain has a long history, and in each different historical stage there are ceramic varieties with different characteristics. There are many varieties of colored porcelain, especially those from the Qing Dynasty, which can reach dozens or even hundreds…
While tidying up the jewelry box late at night, a silver bracelet suddenly slipped out of the velvet box. The small pendant dangling from the chain shimmered softly in the moonlight—it was a gift I bought myself years ago when…
When we gaze at a collected item that has weathered the years, we see far more than just cold materials and craftsmanship. That ancient coin with worn edges holds the hustle and bustle of ancient marketplaces; that old painting with…